Detection and segmentation of mitotic cell nuclei in breast histopathology images

Abstract

Detection and segmentation of cells is an important step for classifying the cells as cancerous or non-cancerous. Pathologists use microscopic images for analysis and further diagnosis of cancer. These images contain the microscopic structure of tissues and are stained using some staining components to facilitate the process. Staining process varies due to different stain manufacturers, staining practices and storage times. Manual methods are still used by pathologists in the detection of cancer. Automated methods assist the pathologists in early detection and diagnosis of cancer, and increase diagnostic precision. Even though many methods have been proposed over the years, ongoing research has failed to develop a system which is both generic and trainable for a wider range of applications with sensitivity and accuracy. Hence, novel automated methods are necessary. A robust, accurate and novel method is proposed for the detection and segmentation of cell nuclei, after which the cells are further classified as mitotic or non-mitotic.